Struggling with the complexities of exporting goods from Australia? With a sea of documents, licenses, and procedural steps to navigate, it can quickly become overwhelming. Every stage of the export process—from understanding compliance requirements to managing goods—poses significant challenges, particularly for businesses without a dedicated legal team.
At Boettcher Law, we understand these obstacles and specialize in simplifying your export journey. Our expertise ensures that your goods are exported seamlessly and in full compliance with both Australian and international regulations. Whether you’re a first-time exporter or an established business expanding into new markets, we provide tailored solutions to streamline the process, save you time, reduce stress, and mitigate risks.
The first step in exporting goods from Australia is determining whether your goods are classified as prescribed or non-prescribed. This distinction is crucial as it dictates the regulations you must follow. Prescribed goods are subject to additional requirements, such as specific documentation and inspections. Our experienced team can guide you through this process to ensure that you comply with all necessary export laws and procedures.
For prescribed goods, the registration process is key. We’ll ensure that your business is properly registered within the Australian export system, allowing you to legally export your goods. Our team will also assist you in obtaining all the required documentation, such as phytosanitary certificates, additional declarations, and requests for permits. This ensures that your export complies with both Australian export laws and the import regulations of the destination country.
Each country has its own unique set of import regulations, and it’s vital to understand these requirements to avoid delays or rejections. With our expertise in international trade law, we will ensure that you are fully compliant with the regulations of the country to which you are exporting. Whether it’s specific certificates, permits, or compliance checks, we will help you navigate the often complex import rules and streamline the process.
Some countries, like China, require additional steps such as registration with the General Administration of Customs (GACC) for certain goods. We’ll handle these details for you, ensuring that your goods are shipped without hassle.
Certain products, especially those in the plant and agricultural sectors, may require additional certificates and inspections before export. For example, logs may require fumigation certificates, and some products need to be processed at a registered establishment. We’ll help you find professionals to inspect your goods and ensure all necessary certifications are obtained, so you don’t miss any crucial steps in the export process.
Exporting goods involves intricate steps, numerous documents, and complex regulatory requirements. At Boettcher Law, we offer a comprehensive, one-stop solution for all your export needs. From business registration to navigating international regulations and compliance, we make the process straightforward and efficient. Let us take the headache out of exporting, so you can focus on what matters most – growing your business.
Hear from clients who’ve navigated the complexities of exporting goods from Australia—with our legal support every step of the way.
In most cases, no licence is required. However, specific goods—such as dual-use items, defence-related products, or certain chemicals—may need permits under legislation like the Export Control Act 2020. It’s essential to check the official “Prohibited and restricted exports” list via the Australian Border Force (ABF).
You’ll typically need:
Export Declaration lodged with ABF (unless exempt)
Commercial Invoice
Packing List
Bills of Lading or Airway Bill
Country-specific documents (e.g. health certificates, permits). Certain commodities (e.g. meat, dairy) must register in systems like EXDOC and comply with DAFF regulations
No. Australian exports are generally GST-free, and no customs duty applies when goods leave Australia. However, ensure compliance by lodging an export declaration or using the correct exemption code via ABF.
You must:
Accurately report export data to ABF under s 234(1)(d) of the Customs Act 1901 (penalties up to A$5 000 apply for false or misleading info)
Maintain export documents for 5 years.
Lodge main manifest and departure report for outgoing flights or vessels.
For exported items like food, plants, or animal products, DAFF’s Step-by-Step Exporter Guides outline registration, inspections, certifications, and compliance under export standards.
Yes, watch for:
Import requirements from the destination, such as labelling, packaging, or health standards.
Australia’s controls on sensitive exports (defence, technology, chemicals).
Trade agreements like CPTPP and AUSFTA, which may simplify processes.
These include inspections, certifications, rules-of-origin, labelling, and quotas. While not tariffs, they can delay or add cost. Preparation and compliance help mitigate these risks.
Austrade offers guidance on market entry, rules, and provides the Export Market Development Grant (EMDG) supporting promotional costs
Freight forwarders and licensed customs clearance agents in Australia:
Manage documentation, compliance, and logistics.
Ensure goods clear customs smoothly.
Use secure payment terms (letters of credit, insurance).
Diversify destination markets to avoid dependency (e.g. heavy reliance on China).
Monitor regulatory changes—such as cabotage rules or trade policy updates.
Save time, avoid costly mistakes, and ensure full compliance with tailored legal support for your export business. Whether you’re starting out or scaling up, we help you navigate every step with confidence.